A new approach for optimal sizing and allocation of distributed generation in power grids

Abstract

This paper presents a methodology for optimizing the allocation and sizing of distributed generators (DG) in electrical systems, aiming to minimize active power losses on transmission lines and maintain bus voltages within permissible limits. The approach consists of two stages. First, a sensitivity based analysis is used to identify the optimal candidate bus or buses for DG placement. In the second stage, a new random number generation method is applied to determine the optimal DG sizing. Moreover, a ranking for the optimal locations and sizes is given in case the optimal location is unavailable in real-world scenarios. The proposed methodology is demonstrated through a straightforward algorithm and tested on the IEEE 14-bus and IEEE 30-bus networks. Numerical simulations in MATLAB illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach in finding the optimal allocation of DG and the amount of active power to be allocated at the candidate buses, considering the inequality constraints regarding voltage limits and DG allowable power. The paper concludes with results, discussions, and recommendations derived from the proposed approach.